Harare – A brazen robbery at a church in Harare’s Goodhope suburb has left the community reeling after thieves made off with US$54,000 in cash. The incident, which occurred late on October 31st, highlights the escalating crime rate in the city and the vulnerability of even seemingly secure institutions.
National police spokesman Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the robbery in a statement, although he declined to name the affected church. He detailed the events of the night: “Police in Marlborough are investigating a case of robbery which occurred at a church in Goodhope, Harare, on October 31 at around 11PM. Five male suspects, who were armed with a pistol and wearing balaclavas attacked two security guards who were on duty. The suspects ransacked the church complex and stole US$54,200 cash which was in a safe.”
The robbers, described as five men armed with a pistol and wearing balaclavas to conceal their identities, struck just after 11 pm. They overpowered the two security guards on duty before proceeding to ransack the church building. Their target was clearly the church safe, which contained the substantial sum of US$54,200. The audacious nature of the robbery, targeting a place of worship, has shocked many residents. The ease with which the robbers overpowered the security guards raises questions about the adequacy of security measures in place at the church.
The police investigation is currently underway, with officers working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Commissioner Nyathi’s statement appealed for any information that might assist with the investigation. The significant amount of cash stolen suggests a level of planning and organisation beyond a typical opportunistic crime, indicating a potential professional criminal element at play. The use of firearms and balaclavas further suggests a calculated and potentially dangerous group of criminals.
While the focus remains on the Goodhope church robbery, Commissioner Nyathi also highlighted another incident, a home invasion in Epworth on November 1st. This separate incident underscores the broader issue of rising crime rates in Harare. He stated: “Two unidentified female suspects confronted the victim under the pretence of buying water before attacking her. The suspects ransacked the house and stole US$7,000 cash and some groceries. Anyone with information should report at any nearest police station.”
This home invasion, while involving a smaller sum of money, shares a similar pattern of deception and violence. The suspects, two unidentified women, used a ruse to gain entry to the victim’s home before carrying out the robbery. The theft of groceries, alongside the cash, suggests a level of desperation or opportunism. The police appeal for information in this case also highlights the need for community vigilance and cooperation in tackling crime.
